An analysis of the term “marriage” from the Buddhist perspective

Abstract

The history of human society is nothing but the description of the evolution and diffusion of various institutions designed toward perpetuation, maintenance and survival of society. The institution of marriage occupies a unique place in the realm of institutions and it is this institution which is instrumental in perpetuating human society through regulations of conjugal and filial ties. The institution of marriage is as old as emergence of the world. As a social institution, it has taken different forms in different societies from time immemorial. It is very useful to analyze definition of what the marriage is. We have the numerous theories offered by social anthropologists about the origin and history of this important institution its various forms, modes and conditions in different epochs and societies. The family as the basis of marriage has been a self-contained unit with a division of functions on a sex basis, each partner performing his or her duties in the best interests of the family as a cooperative unit. The intermixing of cultures affects the institution of marriage and has been changing its shape in different societies in different epochs. Apart from this, the social political, moral and economic conditions of a particular social order have always affected the form of marriage in society. Buddhism has mainly affected to the marriage system. The major aim of this research is to discuss of the marriage as described in Buddhist literature.